Yes, you can open most Chase accounts online from start to finish

Chase lets you open a checking or savings account entirely online using their website or mobile app. You do not need to visit a branch. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you can start using your account the same day in most cases.

The account opens with a temporary number while Chase verifies your identity. Once verification is complete — usually within one business day — you get a permanent account number and can set up direct deposit or transfers. A debit card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Not every Chase product is available online. Some savings products, investment accounts, and business accounts require a branch visit or a phone call. This guide covers personal checking and savings accounts, which are the most common starting point.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a Social Security number, a government ID, and a way to verify your identity (usually a phone number or email) to open an account online.
  • Chase will ask for your current address, employment information, and citizenship status during the online process.
  • Your account opens when ready with a temporary number, but you cannot use the debit card until the physical card arrives in the mail.
  • If Chase cannot verify your identity online, they will ask you to visit a branch or call to complete the account opening.

What documents and information you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin the online process. Having them ready means you will not get stuck halfway through.

You need a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase scans or photographs this during the online process. You also need your Social Security number and your current address. If you have moved recently, have your previous address available; Chase may ask for it.

Chase will ask about your employment status and, if you work, your employer's name. You do not need pay stubs or an employment letter — just the name of the company. You will also confirm your citizenship status. Non-citizens with a valid visa or work permit can open accounts; Chase will ask for your visa or work permit number.

Finally, have a phone number and email address ready. Chase uses these to send you a code that proves you are the person opening the account.

The step-by-step process for opening an account online

Start on Chase's website or in their mobile app. Look for a button that says "Open an Account" or "get your free guide." Chase will ask you to choose between checking, savings, or both.

Next, you enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, and phone number. Chase asks about your employment and citizenship. Then you upload or photograph your government ID. The camera on your phone works fine for this step.

Chase sends a verification code to your phone or email. You enter this code to prove you control that phone number or email address. At this point, your account is open with a temporary number.

Chase then verifies your identity against databases they have access to. This usually happens within one business day. You will receive an email or text telling you when your account is fully active and your permanent account number is ready. You can then log into your account online and set up transfers or direct deposit.

When Chase asks you to visit a branch instead

Chase's online system can verify most people's identities automatically. If it cannot — because your ID is expired, your name does not match their records exactly, or your address is new — Chase will ask you to visit a branch or call their phone line.

This does not mean you cannot open an account. It means you need to complete the identity verification in person or over the phone. A branch employee can scan your ID and confirm your information directly. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You can still use your temporary account number while this happens.

If you do not have a Chase branch near you, call Chase customer service at the number on their website. They can walk you through phone verification, which takes about the same amount of time.

What happens after your account opens

Your temporary account number works when ready for transfers and direct deposit. Your employer or another bank can send money to this number right away. However, you cannot use your debit card until the physical card arrives.

The debit card is mailed to the address you provided during signup. Delivery takes 7 to 10 business days in most cases. When it arrives, you set up it through the Chase app or website before you can use it at stores or ATMs.

While you wait for the card, you can withdraw cash at any Chase ATM using your temporary account number and a PIN you set during signup. You can also transfer money to another bank account or pay bills online through your Chase account.

Fees and minimum balances for new accounts

Chase checking and savings accounts have no monthly fee if you meet one of several conditions. The most common is to keep a minimum balance — the amount varies by account type and changes over time, so check Chase's current terms when you open your account. Other ways to avoid fees include setting up direct deposit or maintaining a linked savings account with a certain balance.

If you do not meet any of these conditions, Chase charges a monthly maintenance fee. This fee is typically waived for the first few months as a new customer. After that, you either need to meet the balance requirement or switch to a different account type.

There are no fees to open the account itself. Chase does not charge you to create a checking or savings account online.

What to do if you run into problems during signup

The most common problem is that Chase cannot verify your identity online. This usually happens because your ID is expired, your address does not match Chase's records, or your name has changed recently. The solution is to visit a branch with your ID or call Chase's customer service line. Both options complete the verification in 10 to 15 minutes.

Another issue is that your Social Security number does not match what Chase finds in their databases. This can happen if you have recently changed your name, if there is a typo in your process, or if there is an error in the database itself. Call Chase to resolve this before trying again online.

If you get stuck on a specific screen, try closing the app or browser and starting over. Sometimes the online form has a temporary glitch. If the same screen fails twice, call Chase instead of trying a third time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to open a Chase account online?

No. Non-citizens with a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document can open an account. Chase will ask for your visa or work permit number during signup. You still need a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Can I open an account if I have had banking problems in the past?

Chase checks a database called ChexSystems that tracks closed accounts and overdrafts. If you appear in this database, Chase may decline to open an account. You can request your ChexSystems report for free to see what information is on file. Some people are able to open accounts after waiting a certain amount of time or by visiting a branch to speak with a manager.

What if I do not have a government ID?

You need a government-issued photo ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you can visit a Chase branch with alternative documents — a passport, consulate ID, or tribal ID — and a branch employee can help you open an account in person.

Can I open a joint account online with someone else?

Chase's online process opens accounts in one person's name only. To open a joint account, you need to visit a branch or call Chase. Both account holders need to be present (in person or on the phone) to verify their identities.

How long does it take to receive my debit card?

Chase mails debit cards within 7 to 10 business days of account opening in most cases. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. You can use your temporary account number at ATMs and for transfers while you wait for the card to arrive.